Located in Canada, the University of Waterloo is a public research university with more than 30,000 students from different countries around the globe. Students are largely drawn by the university’s reputation as one of Canada’s leading universities. Moreso, Waterloo is ranked 25 in the world for graduate employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020) and also possess the largest co-op (paid internship) program in North America.
Importantly, as an international student, you need to secure admission into a school that provides the basics for your chosen course or field of study. Likewise, it is essential to choose a country with a wide range of opportunities and a great standard of living.
This article elaborates on everything you need to know if you are considering studying at the University of Waterloo. Also, you will learn about their tuition fees, the cost of living as it relates to your stay, Accommodation, and finally why the school is a good fit for you.
Now, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
The university offers both graduate and undergraduate programmes. You can access more elaborate information when you choose a course of study on their website. Below is a breakdown of everything you need to know about the University of Waterloo, which includes as it relates to your study at the university.
When considering a study destination, this is a key factor to look out for, before proceeding to decide whether the environment, mode of learning and other factors meet your needs.
From biotechnology, and robotics to health, digital arts, data science, and sustainability – all together, the University of Waterloo offers 100+ programmes. Nevertheless, I have listed out the tops according to the course ranking as seen below.
| Ranked By | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 |
| ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) – Universities Rankings | 201-300 | 201-300 | 151-200 | 151-200 | 151-200 | NA |
| QS – World University Ranking | NA | 152 | 152 | 163 | 173 | 166 |
| THE (Times Higher Education) – University Ranking | NA | 173 | 201-250 | 201-250 | 201-250 | 201-250 |
| US News & World Report – Global Universities | NA | NA | 215 | 217 | 217 | 210 |
Their Tuition fees are listed one term at a time, therefore, are subject to change on an annual basis by the University of Waterloo. In addition, you can access up-to-date information on tuition fee schedules for both domestic and international students through their Finance Office.
Nevertheless, these amounts are approximate and should be used only as a guide because your costs will vary depending on your personal needs and lifestyle.
Below is an estimated living cost for a single person living in Waterloo which covers over a four-month academic term
| Expense | Estimated cost (one term) |
| Housing (off-campus) and utilities – estimated at $600 – $800 per month | $2,400 to $3,200 |
| Food – groceries estimated at $235 per month | $940 |
| Personal expenses – estimated at $385 per month | $1,540 |
| Books and supplies (varies by program) | $500 to $1,000 |
| Total estimated living costs | $5,380 to $6,680 |
Subsequently, you might be thinking a whole lot about the school and its structure to know if it is the best option for you. So, I have covered that as well. Read on…
No, it is not.
For example, If you want to get into the university, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate and what their requirements are. They expect you to meet their GPA and SAT/ACT scores requirements but are more flexible when compared to schools.
The acceptance rate at the University of Waterloo is 53%.
While there is a lot of information about the college application, you need to focus mainly on critical things like GPA requirements, Test requirements (Which includes SAT and ACT requirements) and other application requirements.
The University is known for the following:
Although Waterloo is ranked 25 in the world for graduate employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020), it is also a friendly destination for international students.
The SAT or ACT is optional, they are however recommended by the school to improve your application chances. Although they are both required if you are applying to an Engineering program.
Waterloo is a school that will help you gain relevant experience for whatever career path you wish to pursue both now and in the future. They have the largest co-op program in North America, as well as international exchanges, clubs, certificate programs, lab work, field studies, and hackathons, which are all examples of interesting ways to pursue your interests.
There is a wide range of opportunities in Waterloo, there are also scholarships available for both in the country and international students.
Having read this far, be rest assured that you are good to go. But before then, let me share 10 Things You Must Ask Yourself Before Applying to a Scholarship – this would help you if you are looking to secure a scholarship to study at the University of Waterloo.
Meanwhile, you can actually travel abroad for free. Are you in doubt? Click here to find out how.
Until next time, your success matters!
This post was last modified on August 20, 2021 11:46 am